A development think tank, BONABOTO, has urged the government to fulfil its pledge to construct an airport in Bolgatanga, arguing that the project could unlock significant economic opportunities for Ghana’s Upper East Region and neighbouring countries.
The group said the proposed Bolgatanga Airport would boost trade, tourism and cross-border movement, particularly for travellers from nearby countries such as Burkina Faso.
Speaking in an interview, BONABOTO’s National President, Samuel Atintono, pointed to the success of the Tamale International Airport as evidence of the transformative impact airport infrastructure can have in northern Ghana.
He explained that many passengers currently transit through Tamale before continuing to Bolgatanga and other destinations, highlighting inefficiencies in travel and logistics.
“If you look at airports that have been constructed in the north, Tamale, for example, there are now about three flights operating there every day,” he said.
“When you consider the location of Bolgatanga, people travelling from Burkina Faso often have to go through Tamale to catch flights. If the Bolgatanga Airport is constructed, travellers can easily access flights directly from Bolgatanga. This will open up the space and create more economic opportunities.”
Atintono also raised concerns about road conditions between Bolgatanga and Tamale, noting that although the journey can take about an hour under ideal conditions, poor roads often extend travel time to nearly three hours.
“Between Bolgatanga and Tamale, anything could happen along the road,” he said, stressing the need for safer and faster transport options.
He further pointed to the region’s economic potential, particularly mining activities around the Tongo Hills, where improved air connectivity could facilitate the secure and efficient transport of gold and other resources.
The call comes as stakeholders continue to push for infrastructure development in northern Ghana to drive inclusive growth and improve regional integration.
